Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Dario Essugo on a long-term deal.
The 20-year-old has signed from Sporting CP for a reported fee of £18.5million, putting pen to paper on an eight-year deal that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2033.
Essugo came through Sporting’s academy and made club history as the youngest-ever player to feature for the club in March 2021, making his senior debut at 16 years and six days.
He then broke Luis Figo’s record as the youngest starter for Sporting later that year and went on to make 12 appearances for the first team.
Chelsea FC is pleased to confirm the signing of Portuguese midfielder Dario Essugo.
Welcome to Chelsea, Dario!
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 2, 2025
The midfielder spent last season on loan at Las Palmas, playing 27 LaLiga games for the club, scoring once, and creating 13 chances for the team.
Essugo is Chelsea’s first signing of the transfer window, with reports suggesting Liam Delap is also closing in on a move to the Blues.
The youngster could make his debut for Chelsea at the Club World Cup, which they begin against Club Leon on June 16.
